DEAR GOD: Thank You For Your Spirit In Your Believers~

Posted on October 29, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Holy Mass images...: HOLY SPIRIT

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (KJV)
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

These powerful verses, penned by the Apostle Paul, remind us of the profound truth that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit. This concept was revolutionary to the Corinthians, who lived in a society where the body was often misused and defiled. Paul emphasizes that as believers, we are not our own; we have been bought with a price—the precious blood of Jesus Christ. This truth calls us to live lives of holiness, honoring God with our bodies and spirits.

Meaning Then and Now
Then: In the first-century Corinthian context, these verses were a stark reminder of the need for sexual purity and respect for one’s body. Corinth was known for its immorality, and the concept of the body being a temple of the Holy Spirit was a radical shift in thinking. Paul wanted the Corinthians to understand that their bodies were not their own to misuse but were sacred, set apart for God’s purposes. They had been redeemed at a great cost, and this redemption called for a life that reflected God’s holiness.

Today: For Christians today, these verses continue to resonate deeply. In a world where the body is often objectified and misused, the call to honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit is a timely reminder. It challenges us to live with integrity, purity, and a sense of responsibility toward our bodies. Recognizing that we are bought with a price, we are urged to glorify God in all aspects of our lives—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Moral Takeaways
Holiness and Purity: Our bodies are sacred and should be treated with respect and purity, reflecting the holiness of God.

Stewardship: We are stewards of our bodies, called to care for them and use them in ways that honor God.

Identity in Christ: Our worth and identity come from being God’s temple, redeemed by the sacrifice of Jesus.

Reflective Questions
How can I honor God with my body and spirit in my daily life?

In what ways can I be a better steward of the body God has entrusted to me?

How does understanding that I am bought with a price change my perspective on my actions and decisions?

Supporting Scriptures (NKJV)
Romans 12:1 (NKJV): “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV): “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

1 Peter 1:18-19 (NKJV): “Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Prayer
“LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Help us to honor our bodies as Your temples, living lives of holiness and purity. Remind us daily of the great price paid for our redemption and guide us to glorify You in all that we do. Strengthen our commitment to live as faithful stewards of the bodies and lives You have entrusted to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

Blessing
May the Lord’s presence fill your heart with peace and His Spirit guide you in every step. Trust in His love and live each day honoring Him in body and spirit.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: You Inspire, Correct, Instruct & Love~

Posted on October 27, 2024 by C D SWANSON

God’s guidance | Daily Bible Devotions and Christian Devotionals

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)

This verse, found in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, is a profound declaration of the divine origin and purpose of Scripture. It reminds us that the Bible is not just a collection of historical documents or moral teachings, but the very breath of God, given to guide, teach, and transform us.

The phrase “given by inspiration of God” means that every word of Scripture is God-breathed. This affirms the divine authority and infallibility of the Bible. As Christians, we believe that through the Holy Spirit, God inspired human authors to write His words, making the Bible a living and active revelation of His will.

“Profitable for doctrine” indicates that Scripture provides the foundation of our beliefs. It teaches us who God is, who we are, and how we are to live in relationship with Him. It is through Scripture that we gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His redemptive plan for humanity.

“For reproof and correction” shows that the Bible not only teaches us what is right but also convicts us of our wrongs. It serves as a mirror, reflecting our true selves and revealing areas where we fall short. Yet, it also offers correction, guiding us back to the right path and helping us grow in holiness.

“For instruction in righteousness” highlights the Bible’s role in our spiritual formation. It equips us to live righteously, providing practical guidance for our daily lives. Through Scripture, we learn to align our actions with God’s will and to embody His love, grace, and truth.

“That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” emphasizes the transformative power of the Bible. It is through engaging with Scripture that we are made complete and equipped to fulfill God’s purposes. The Bible prepares us for every good work, enabling us to serve others and bring glory to God.

Moral Takeaways:
Divine Authority: Recognize that the Bible is the inspired word of God, carrying divine authority in all matters of faith and life.

Spiritual Growth: Allow Scripture to shape and transform us, guiding us in righteousness and equipping us for good works.

Continuous Learning: Engage regularly with the Bible, seeking to understand and apply its teachings in our daily lives.

Reflective Questions:
How do I prioritize Scripture in my daily life and spiritual growth?

In what areas do I need to allow the Bible to correct and guide me?

How can I use the teachings of Scripture to serve others and glorify God?

Supporting Scriptures (KJV):
Psalm 119:105: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

James 1:22: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”

Prayer:
“LORD- We thank You for the gift of Your Word, inspired by Your Spirit and given to guide, teach, and transform us. Help us to honor Scripture as the authoritative revelation of Your will. May we continually seek Your truth, allowing the Bible to shape our beliefs, correct our ways, and instruct us in righteousness. Equip us through Your Word to do every good work, serving others and glorifying Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder:
Joshua 1:8 (KJV): “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”

Blessing:
May the Lord’s Word dwell richly in your heart, guiding and transforming you. Trust in His promises and find strength in His Divine guidance.

God Bless You All~

Quotes About Gods Guidance. QuotesGram

DEAR GOD: You Are My Delight All The Day Long~

Posted on October 19, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Psalm 37:4 (KJV)

“Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of
thine heart.”

This verse is a beautiful invitation to find our deepest joy and satisfaction in our relationship
with the Lord. When we truly delight in God, we align our hearts with His will. Delighting in the Lord means finding pleasure, joy, and fulfillment in His presence, His Word, and His ways. It
means prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else and letting our hearts be transformed by His love and grace.

The promise that follows is profound: “He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” This doesn’t mean that God becomes a wish granting entity for our every whim. Rather, it suggests that when we delight in Him, our desires become shaped by His. Our hearts begin to yearn for what pleases Him, and our prayers align with His perfect will. In this divine alignment, our desires are fulfilled because they resonate with God’s plans and purposes for our lives.

Supportive Scriptures

Matthew 6:33 (ESV): “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all
these things will be added to you.”
- Emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God and
  His kingdom.
John 15:7 (ESV): “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you
wish, and it will be done for you.”
- Highlights the connection between abiding in Christ and receiving answered prayers.
Psalm 16:11 (ESV): “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
- Reflects the joy and fulfillment found in God’s presence.

Reflective Questions

How do I currently delight in the Lord? Are there ways I can deepen my relationship
with Him?
What desires do I have that may need to be aligned with God’s will?
How has God fulfilled the desires of my heart when I have sought Him first?

Moral Takeaway

The essence of Psalm 37:4 encourages us to find our deepest joy in the Lord. As we delight in
Him, our desires become aligned with His will, and we experience the fulfillment of those
desires. It teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God, trusting that He
knows what is best for us and will provide accordingly.

Closing Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts open to delight in Your presence. Help us to
find our joy and fulfillment in You above all else. Align our desires with Your will, and may our
hearts yearn for what pleases You. Thank You for the promise that as we delight in You, You will grant us the desires of our hearts. Guide us in our journey of faith, and let Your love transform us daily. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Scripture to Ponder

Isaiah 26:3 (ESV): “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he
trusts in you.”

Blessing

May your heart be filled with the joy and peace that comes from delighting in the Lord. As you
seek Him with all your heart, may He grant you the desires that align with His perfect will. Trust in His goodness and be blessed by His abundant love and grace.

God Bless You All~

DEAR GOD: Seek You In All I Do – Every Day & Beyond~

Posted on October 7, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Homepage - Seeking God

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

Psalm 63:1

Psalm 63:1 is a heartfelt expression of longing and devotion to God. David, the psalmist, finds himself in a barren wilderness, both physically and spiritually. Despite his dire circumstances, he seeks God earnestly, recognizing that only God can quench his deep spiritual thirst.

Moral Takeaways:

Seek God Earnestly: Just as David sought God early and earnestly, we too should prioritize our relationship with God, especially in times of need.
Spiritual Thirst: Our souls have a deep need for God, much like our bodies need water. Recognizing this need can lead us to a more fulfilling spiritual life.
Dependence on God: In our most challenging times, acknowledging our dependence on God can bring us comfort and strength.

Moral Thoughts:

In moments of spiritual dryness, turning to God can provide the refreshment and renewal we need.
Our longing for God should be as intense as our physical needs, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our spiritual lives.

Reflective Questions:

When was the last time you earnestly sought God in prayer or worship?
How do you recognize and address your spiritual thirst?
In what ways can you prioritize your relationship with God in your daily life?

Supportive Scriptures (ESV):

Matthew 5:6: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
John 4:14: “But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Isaiah 55:1: “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Prayer

“LORD- we come before You with hearts that long for Your presence. Just as David sought You in the wilderness, we seek You in our times of need. Quench our spiritual thirst and fill us with Your living water. Help us to prioritize our relationship with You and to seek You earnestly every day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Scripture for the Day

Psalm 42:1 (ESV): “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.”

Blessing

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen.

God Bless you all~

How To Seek God's Presence - leahleedesigns

DEAR GOD: Today In This Moment -My Faith Abounds~

Posted on October 4, 2024 by C D SWANSON

“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” – Proverbs 27:1 (ESV)

Reflection on Proverbs 27:1

This verse from Proverbs reminds us of the uncertainty of life and the importance of humility. It speaks to the human tendency to make grand plans and boast about future achievements, forgetting that our lives are ultimately in God’s hands. As Christians, we are called to live in the present, trusting in God’s provision and guidance for each day. Trust in the LORD! He is in control – no need to worry about tomorrow- live for the day – and do ALL unto the LORD in each task, each deed, and all that you endeavor!

Duties of a Christian

As followers of Christ, we are called to live according to His commandments and teachings. This includes:

Trusting in God’s Plan: We must trust that God knows what is best for us, even when our plans do not unfold as expected. Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Living Humbly: We should approach each day with humility, recognizing that we do not control the future. James 4:13-15 (ESV) echoes this sentiment: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’”
Being Present: Jesus taught us to focus on today and not to worry about tomorrow. Matthew 6:34 (ESV) states, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”